The use of occlusal splints in temporomandibular disorders - an overview.

Abstract

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affect the temporomandibular joints, the masticatory muscles, and surrounding tissues. Among symptoms such as jumps, joint noises, reduced mouth opening (closed lock), difficulties in closing the mouth (subluxation or open lock), pain is the most common symptom encountered among patients diagnosed with temporomandibular disorders. As literature on this topic is abundant and sometimes controversial, the authors focus on reviewing the state of art of occlusal splints indications. Therefore, the most common occlusal splints, like Lucia jig, nociceptive trigeminal inhibition (NTI), directive splints, etc., are being described, based on their design and therapeutic indications. Cases of malocclusions associated or not with parafunctions are usually manageable using the splints mentioned in this article. In case of disc displacements, occlusal appliances can be used, but as the etiology is multifactorial, there are some limitations, depending on the complexity of each clinical situation.

Occlusal splints-types and effectiveness in temporomandibular disorder management

“…This eliminates the source and impact of muscle coordination issues ( Yadav & Karani, 2011 ). It achieves balanced muscular function and eliminates abnormal occlusal contact (by reducing parafunctional activity) ( Kui et al, 2020 ). This work modifies the occlusion so that the teeth no longer impede the entire seating of the condyles ( Kui et al, 2020 ).…”

“…It achieves balanced muscular function and eliminates abnormal occlusal contact (by reducing parafunctional activity) ( Kui et al, 2020 ). This work modifies the occlusion so that the teeth no longer impede the entire seating of the condyles ( Kui et al, 2020 ). Consequently, muscular activity can also be controlled ( Kui et al, 2020 ).…”

“…This work modifies the occlusion so that the teeth no longer impede the entire seating of the condyles ( Kui et al, 2020 ). Consequently, muscular activity can also be controlled ( Kui et al, 2020 ).…”

“…It disengages all teeth except the incisors, reducing the clenching force on muscles, parafunctional movement, and TMJ strain ( Alqutaibi & Aboalrejal, 2015 ). It prevents clenching by preventing the posterior teeth from performing functional or parafunctional behaviors ( Kui et al, 2020 ). ( Fig.…”

“…When joint pain occurs, the splint moves the mandible forward. These splints are helpful in two clinical situations: severe trauma with retrodiscal effusion and painful disk displacements that do not go away( Kui et al, 2020 ).…”